The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded fewer cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in the first two weeks of October, reiterating that there is no outbreak or need for a lockdown.
In an interview on DZMM Teleradyo, Health Promotion Bureau Director Tina Marasigan said a total of 6,457 ILI cases were recorded nationwide from Sept. 28 to Oct. 11.
‘This is 39% lower than the 10,740 cases recorded from Sept. 14 to 27, 2025,’ she said in Filipino.
She added that the latest figures are 25% lower than the 8,628 cases logged during the same period in 2024. However, she noted the numbers may still change due to ongoing surveillance.
In a press briefing on Friday, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the DOH has no plans to implement a lockdown in response to ILI.
‘There is no planned lockdown; that is fake news. What we have are seasonal respiratory illnesses, so it’s not a flu outbreak. We do not have a flu outbreak,’ Herbosa said.
He noted that ILI, or illnesses such as cough and flu, tend to spread quickly during the rainy season. He added that the DOH recommends wearing face masks or staying home for those who contract ILI.
The DOH also reminded the public of the following:
Regular handwashing using clean water and soap
Cover the mouth or nose when sneezing or coughing
Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, and drink plenty of water
For those who have symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, and body ache, the following must be observed:
Stay at home to prevent spreading the disease
Take medicine like paracetamol for a fever
Consult a doctor or go to the nearest health center
The Department of Education – National Capital Region (DepEd NCR) noted an increase in ILI cases among students, as well as the recent earthquakes that struck the country.
As a precaution, it suspended face-to-face classes from October 13 to 14 ‘to allow time for disinfection, sanitation, and building inspections’ in all public schools in Metro Manila